Oxygen analyzers are electronic devices that are used to measure the percentage of oxygen in a gas mixture. They run on batteries, and most are equipped with a sensor that measures the percentage of oxygen in a gas mixture. Most modern oxygen analyzers have a digital display that shows the reading. All dive centers that fill Nitrox cylinders have oxygen analyzers. They use them to check each cylinder after it has been filled to be sure that it contains the correct mixture of nitrogen and oxygen.

Oxygen analyzers are simple devices to use. In most cases, they require nothing more than to be turned on and allowed to stabilize while reading room air. After the analyzer has been on for a few minutes, it should read very close to 21 percent oxygen. If it does not, one must simply calibrate the analyzer to the correct reading, usually by turning a dial located on the front of the unit.

Once the analyzer has been calibrated, it is connected to your cylinder using some type of device that will restrict the flow of Nitrox to the analyzer so it is not exposed to high pressure. Once the Nitrox is flowing steadily to the analyzer, and the reading has stabilized, the reading is noted.

It isn’t necessary to purchase your own oxygen analyzer, although most serious Nitrox divers end up purchasing their own units for use at home or on dive trips. An analyzer is especially useful for technical divers who own more than one Nitrox cylinder, and have them filled with different mixtures. In the event a tag is lost or falls off, it is a simple matter to reanalyze your own cylinder. You must always know what gas mixture is in your cylinder.

Equipment that doesn’t need to be oxygen clean
Equipment that is exposed to low pressure oxygen, such as buoyancy compensators, their low pressure inflators and dry suit inflation valves, do not need to be cleaned or lubricated for oxygen service. There is very little chance of explosion or fire danger with dive gear that is exposed to low pressure oxygen.